SC Modifies Earlier Order: Stray Dogs Can Be Released Back After Vaccination and Deworming

New Delhi, August 22, 2025: In a significant modification of its earlier directive, the Supreme Court on Friday allowed the release of stray dogs back into their original localities after they are vaccinated and dewormed, softening its previous stand on confining all stray canines within shelters in the Delhi-NCR region.

A three-judge Bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria ruled that the earlier prohibition on the release of stray dogs “shall remain in abeyance.” The Court clarified that only non-aggressive, vaccinated, and healthy dogs may be returned to their areas of origin.

The Bench was categorical that stray dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior or infected with rabies shall not be released under any circumstance. This clarification came as part of the Court's evolving response to a series of petitions and public interest concerns about the humane treatment and management of stray dogs in urban environments.

Taking a broader view, the Supreme Court impleaded all States and Union Territories, directing them to assist in the formulation of a uniform national policy for the management of stray animals. The Bench emphasized the importance of a balanced and compassionate approach, one that ensures public safety while safeguarding animal welfare.

This modification follows the Supreme Court’s August 11, 2025 order, issued by a separate Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, which had directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and other civic bodies to round up all stray dogs within eight weeks and confine them in shelters with a capacity of at least 5,000 animals—with no option for re-release.

The case took a new turn after an oral mention on August 13 brought to light a May 9, 2024 order advocating compassionate treatment of strays. Responding swiftly, Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai used his administrative powers to withdraw the matter from the original bench and assign it to the current three-judge Bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath.

After hearing arguments at length on August 14, the Bench reserved its order before delivering today’s ruling.